From Drafts to Dreams: A Personal & Professional Q&A with Joshua Jones on a Decade of Design
Hard to believe, but this month marks our 10th anniversary of providing virtual interior design and decorating services nationwide and globally. Where did the time go? It's been an incredible journey filled with both fun and life-changing experiences. I reached out to my social media followers to gather questions about my decade-long career in interior design and my personal life. Below, you'll find the questions they asked, along with my answers.
Interior designer Joshua Jones
What inspired you to start a career in interior design?
I've shared this story on my vlog before, but it's worth retelling. Growing up, I was immersed in the world of interior design thanks to my mom, who was a professional interior designer in Southern California for about 20 years. Despite this, I never envisioned following in her footsteps until my second year at Western Oregon University. It was then, in an apartment I shared with two roommates, that I discovered my knack for decorating. After personalizing my bedroom, friends who visited were so impressed by my decoration skills, they suggested I pursue a career in interior design. The irony wasn't lost on me; what I had found amusing as a career choice for myself was exactly what my mom had been doing for decades. Motivated by their encouragement and my newfound passion, I changed my major and transferred to the Art Institute of Seattle. There, I pursued my education further and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design.
Can you share a story about your first interior design project?
Before launching my own business, I worked as a freelance interior designer, taking on various local projects in the Seattle area. My first interior design project came through one of my close friends who enlisted my help to decorate the two bedrooms in her yacht. Together, we embarked on a shopping spree, carefully selecting beddings and decorative pillows that would complement the yacht's aesthetic. Collaboratively, we worked to bring her vision to life, making my inaugural project in the interior design field not only a memorable experience but also a fun one.
How has your design style evolved over the past 10 years?
Absolutely! At the onset of my career in interior design, the predominant styles I embraced were transitional and modern farmhouse, both of which enjoyed immense popularity back then. While transitional style continues to be relevant, my engagements with it have significantly diminished over time. Conversely, the modern farmhouse trend has seen a decline, and it's been a while since I've worked within that aesthetic. Over the past decade, my design style has diversified considerably. I now explore and incorporate a wide range of design styles into my projects, including California Casual, Mid-Century Modern, Japandi, Scandinavian, Modern Eclectic, Rustic Glam, Modern Organic, and Bohemian. This evolution reflects not only personal growth and changing trends but also my commitment to adapting and meeting my clients' diverse preferences.
What's the most challenging project you've ever worked on and why?
Throughout my career, I've encountered several challenging projects, but one in particular stands out due to issues with a contractor during a complete remodel of a client's 3,000 sq. ft. house. Before the project commenced, I had a video meeting with the contractor to outline our collaboration and ensure our client was involved in every detail. Unfortunately, the contractor began to ignore my emails, failed to respond to crucial questions, and made significant errors in measurements that severely impacted the project. This forced us to double-check all measurements with the client directly.
What was initially planned as a one-year remodel extended to three years, primarily due to these communication breakdowns and errors. Despite these challenges, working with the clients themselves was a pleasure; they were understanding and cooperative throughout. However, the frustration with the contractor's lack of communication and continuous mistakes grew. Eventually, when the project was about 90% complete, the client decided to terminate the contractor due to the numerous issues encountered and hired a different contractor to finish the remodel.
This experience underscored the importance of effective communication and collaboration between contractors, interior designers, and clients. It's crucial for the success of a project that all parties work closely together, rather than making assumptions or ignoring the collaborative process. It also goes to show how important it is to vet your potential contractor carefully!
Have you had a project that didn't go as planned? How did you handle it?
Yes, there have been a few projects in my career that didn't unfold as anticipated, primarily due to misalignments in design aesthetics and preferences between my clients and myself. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we realize that we're not the perfect match for a project, which is a common occurrence in any professional field. It's crucial to understand that not every collaboration will work out as expected, and that’s ok.
In my early career, I learned an important lesson: not to take these situations personally. Accepting that things might not always go according to plan, regardless of my feelings towards the outcome, has been a valuable mindset. It's all part of the journey and growth as an interior designer.
What are some of the biggest changes you've seen in the interior design industry during your career?
The interior design industry has undergone significant transformations during my career, but two changes stand out prominently:
E-Design/Virtual Interior Design: At the start of my career, e-design was a novel concept practiced by a few interior designers, including myself. Initially, some traditional designers were skeptical, viewing e-design with a certain disdain. However, over the years, as its benefits became more apparent, e-design gained widespread acceptance. It allowed clients to collaborate with designers they admire, regardless of geographical constraints, and provided a safe way to continue design projects during the Covid-19 pandemic. With the pandemic's impact, e-design experienced an explosive growth, fundamentally changing how people perceive and engage with interior design services. Even as we move towards normalcy, e-design continues to flourish.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Interior Design: The advent of AI in the interior design industry marks another significant shift. Initially, some companies attempted to use AI to automate design processes, aiming to replace human designers. However, it quickly became evident that AI could not replicate the nuanced understanding and creativity of professional designers. Despite this, AI has found its place as a valuable tool, enhancing our work by making processes more efficient and effective, rather than replacing the personal touch and expertise of human designers.
These developments highlight the industry's dynamic nature and the importance of adapting to new technologies and methodologies to stay relevant and provide the best possible service to our clients.
Can you share a moment in your career that you're particularly proud of?
There have been numerous moments in my career that fill me with pride, but one stands out not just as a point of pride but also as a deeply meaningful milestone. Being featured in House Beautiful, a renowned interior design magazine, was an incredibly significant achievement for me. This recognition was not only a nod to the quality of my work but also an opportunity to share my journey in the interior design industry, along with the challenges I've overcome. It was a moment that truly underscored the impact of my designs and my story, making it a highlight of my career that I cherish deeply.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their career in interior design?
For those just starting out in interior design, mastering client communication is crucial. It's essential not to make assumptions but rather to ask detailed questions to fully understand your clients and their project needs. This is a lesson I learned early on, especially during my time as a design lead for Decorist, where I observed that effective communication is often what many interior designers lack. Engaging in thorough, open dialogue with your clients is key to ensuring the success of a project. Remember, good communication is not just an important skill; it's the foundation of a successful interior design career. The more effective communicator you are, the more likely you are to achieve a project that meets, or even exceeds, your client's expectations.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
When embarking on a new project, my initial step is to thoroughly review the project details, including photos of the space I'll be working on. I also examine design inspirations shared by my clients from platforms such as Pinterest, Houzz, Instagram, or even personal photos from their travels and places they adore. This diverse mix of sources fuels my creativity and guides the direction of my design work.
For clients unsure about their preferred design style or those struggling to find inspiration that resonates with them, I offer examples of various design styles and color schemes. This approach aids in clarifying their likes and dislikes, enabling me to draw inspiration from aesthetics that appeal to them. Essentially, understanding my clients' preferences and incorporating elements that reflect their personality and journey is key to creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful to them.
How do you stay creative and inspired after 10 years in the industry?
Maintaining creativity and inspiration over a decade in the industry involves both the project-specific process I mentioned earlier and broader, more general activities. For each project, engaging deeply with my clients' preferences, inspirations, and the essence of their spaces is fundamental. Beyond individual projects, I actively seek out new experiences and perspectives by exploring my city, taking day or weekend trips, and traveling internationally. These excursions are not just breaks from the routine; they're vital for recharging my creative energy and gathering fresh inspiration from the world's diverse cultures, landscapes, and architectures. This blend of client-focused inspiration and personal exploration keeps my designs innovative and fresh, year after year.
What's your favorite part of the design process?
My favorite part of the design process is working with CAD to draft the floor plan and furniture arrangement. This step is crucial as it allows me to accurately determine measurements and experiment with different furniture layouts. By doing so, I can visualize which configurations will best utilize my client's space and decide on the furniture pieces that are the perfect fit. This technical yet creative aspect of the process not only challenges me but also ensures that the final design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
What's your biggest pet peeve when it comes to design and why?
One of my biggest pet peeves in design, among a few, is visible lamp shade seams. The seam of a lamp shade should always be concealed from view. Whether it's a table lamp or a floor lamp positioned near a wall, I believe in rotating the shade so that the seam faces the wall, avoiding visibility from the sides or front, which can detract from the lamp's appearance. For lamps situated away from walls, I recommend adjusting the shade so the seam faces an area with less foot traffic or out of direct sight. I must admit, whenever I notice this in homes or commercial spaces, I can't help but adjust the shades to correct it. It's a small detail, but in design, every detail counts towards creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing space.
What interior design trends are you excited about right now?
Currently, I'm particularly excited about two design trends: Art Deco and Japandi. As a long-time admirer of the Art Deco style, I'm thrilled to see its resurgence in recent years. This revival has already given me the opportunity to design both a bedroom and a kitchen in the Art Deco style, and I'm eager to embrace more projects featuring this distinctive aesthetic. On another note, Japandi—a seamless blend of Japanese and Scandinavian styles—resonates deeply with my appreciation for Scandinavian design. This hybrid style, which I've had the pleasure of working with frequently over the last couple of years, perfectly combines the minimalism and warmth of Scandinavian design with the traditional elegance of Japanese aesthetics. I'm truly enjoying the creative possibilities that both these trends bring to the table.
How do you think technology has changed interior design over the past decade?
Over the past decade, the advancements in technology have significantly transformed the field of interior design, offering profound benefits to designers like myself. Notably, the expansion of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software options has revolutionized the way we conceptualize and plan our designs. Even more remarkable is the evolution of photorealistic 3D rendering technology. It has progressed from easily distinguishable 3D models to renderings of such high quality that they're indistinguishable from professional photography. This leap in rendering technology enables us to present our visions to clients in a way that's not just convincing but virtually tangible. It's truly amazing to witness and utilize these technological advancements in our design processes.
How do you keep up with industry changes and new design trends?
To stay abreast of the latest industry changes and design trends, I primarily turn to social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. These platforms have a strong focus on design and are rich sources of inspiration and information, allowing me to remain at the forefront of the industry. This knowledge not only informs my projects but also influences how I adapt my practices to incorporate effective tools and strategies.
Regarding design trends, while I make an effort to keep up with them, I advise my clients against strictly following these fleeting styles. Instead, I advocate for timeless design choices that will remain appealing and relevant for years to come. Opting for a classic design approach not only ensures longevity but also avoids the costs and environmental impact associated with frequently updating interiors to match the latest trends. My goal is to create spaces that stand the test of time, both aesthetically and functionally.
If you could redesign any celebrity's home, whose would it be and why?
I would be thrilled to work with Jennifer Aniston on her next home. It seems she frequently moves into new homes, and she possesses a fabulous taste in design. Collaborating with her would not only be an opportunity to engage with her distinct style preferences but also a chance to bring a fresh and innovative perspective to her living spaces. Jennifer Aniston's reputation for having an eye for design makes the prospect of redesigning her home an exciting challenge and a unique opportunity to blend her tastes with new, creative ideas.
What's your favorite room in a house to design?
Among the various rooms in a house, the kitchen stands out as my favorite to design. I consider it the heart of the home, making it not only the most important room but also the most exciting to work on. Designing a kitchen presents a unique set of challenges, as it requires a delicate balance between functionality and aesthetics. It's crucial to ensure the kitchen is practical for everyday use while also complementing the overall design of the house and enhancing its value.
Each time I have the opportunity to collaborate with a client on their kitchen, I'm thrilled. Whether it's devising a design plan for a compact kitchen or reimagining a vast culinary space, I'm passionate about creating kitchens that are both functional and beautiful. Working with clients to explore different styles and discover the best solutions for their needs is always a rewarding experience.
If you weren't an interior designer, what career path might you have pursued?
If I hadn't embarked on a career in interior design, I would have been drawn to the field of real estate development, with a particular focus on revitalizing city neighborhoods to help them flourish. The idea of transforming spaces not just within homes but across communities, enhancing their appeal and livability, truly excites me. Unfortunately, the significant financial investment required for such endeavors is a barrier I haven't been able to overcome... yet. Who knows what the future holds? Maybe someday, I'll have the opportunity to explore this path and contribute to the growth and vitality of urban neighborhoods.
What's the strangest or most unique design request you've ever received?
Over the years, I've encountered a variety of unique and unusual design requests from my clients, but one particularly distinctive request stands out, made by a fun and fabulous couple who quickly became some of my favorite clients. Before bringing me on board, they had painted the ceiling of their home office a bold shade of blue. Embracing this unique feature, we designed the space around the blue ceiling, incorporating funky leaf wallpaper and selecting mid-century modern style furniture to complement it. The result was a space we all loved, and I was thrilled to be rehired to work on other rooms in their home.
How do you balance personal taste with professional recommendations in your designs?
In every project, my foremost priority is to align the design with my clients' tastes and needs. It's crucial to remember that the project is about them, not me. On occasion, clients will request designs that not only fulfill their personal desires but also create spaces that are sure to impress their guests, all while remaining functional and reflective of their own style. In these instances, I set aside my personal preferences and concentrate fully on meeting my clients' expectations. This approach allows me to maintain a clear focus on their requirements, ensuring that the end result is a space they love and feel represents them accurately.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
My favorite way to unwind after a busy week involves spending quality time with my husband, Jeffry, and our beloved furry babies. Jeffry and I love to explore new culinary experiences, so trying out new restaurants is something we look forward to. Additionally, visiting the farmers market when we have the chance is a great way to enjoy our weekends. Apart from that, hanging out with close friends, catching up, and sharing laughter is another way I cherish to relax and recharge. These moments of personal connection and enjoyment are invaluable to me.
If you could live in any home from a movie or TV show, which one would it be and why?
I would choose to live in Monica and Rachel's apartment from one of my all-time favorite TV shows, 'Friends.' There's something about the character and coziness of this apartment that deeply appeals to me. The large, sloped window in the living room is a feature I particularly adore—it adds so much personality and light to the space. The size of the apartment feels just right for us, making it the perfect choice for a dream home in an urban mecca like NYC, inspired by a TV show.
If you could instantly master any skill (outside of interior design), what would it be?
If I could instantly master any skill outside of interior design, it would undoubtedly be construction. Regrettably, I've never been particularly adept at it, primarily because I lacked the opportunity to learn and practice it growing up. This absence of hands-on experience has always made me yearn to develop proficiency in construction. It's a skill that not only complements interior design perfectly but would also significantly amplify my capability to realize design visions fully. Mastery in construction would allow me to bridge the gap between design conception and physical execution, enhancing the coherence and feasibility of my projects.
If you had to eat one type of cuisine for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Choosing just one type of cuisine to eat for the rest of my life is a tough decision, given my love for diverse flavors. However, if I must choose, it would undoubtedly be Mexican food. There's something about the rich flavors and variety within Mexican cuisine that always appeals to me and it’s something that I grew up with in southern California. The thought of enjoying it regularly excites me, and I'm confident I would never get tired of it…though my husband sometimes does of my requests for it.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
If I had the chance to travel anywhere in the world at this moment, Italy would be my destination of choice. It's currently at the top of our travel list. My desire to explore the iconic cities of Venice, Florence, Pisa, and Milan is immense. We're hopeful about making the trip later this year or possibly next year, depending on how circumstances unfold.
What's one thing most people don't know about you?
Many of you are aware that I'm Deaf, but what's less known is that I am also legally blind. This is due to being born with Usher Syndrome, which is also the reason for my Deafness. Currently, my vision is still relatively functional. However, I use a blind cane for navigation when I'm out and about, especially since my ability to see directly below me or in low light conditions is compromised.
What design trend do you want to see end, and why?
Edison bulbs. This design trend needs to come to an end. Many have embraced Edison bulbs excessively and for the wrong reasons. Originally, these bulbs were intended as decorative elements, not as the primary source of illumination for a space. While I understand the appeal of Edison bulbs in creating an industrial ambiance, particularly in restaurants, the trend often results in environments that are too dim. This can detract from the dining experience, making it difficult for patrons to read menus, see their meals clearly, or even recognize faces across the table. Edison bulbs can certainly add a unique aesthetic as decorative lighting, but they should not be relied upon as the main lighting solution.
What design trend were you hoping would happen but didn't?
Approximately five years ago, I began noticing a budding design trend that caught my attention: Modern Victorian style. This was around the time The Empress hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, unveiled its major renovation, showcasing a Modern Victorian aesthetic. I found this style particularly intriguing due to its uniqueness and blend of contemporary and traditional elements. As I was moving to San Francisco from Vancouver, BC, I was hopeful to see this trend gain traction, especially given San Francisco's renown for its stunning Victorian homes. Unfortunately, the city didn't embrace this style as I had anticipated, and the Modern Victorian trend seemed to dissipate more quickly than others. However, I remain hopeful that it might resurface and enjoy a longer stint in the spotlight next time.
Who is your favorite celebrity interior designer, and why?
Bobby Berk is my favorite celebrity interior designer, and his work is a major reason why I enjoy watching 'Queer Eye.' I am continually impressed by the beautiful transformations he achieves in people's homes, showcasing not just his talent but also his ability to deeply understand and reflect the homeowners' personalities. Additionally, I find Bobby's background relatable and inspiring, seeing parallels between his journey and my own. This connection adds an extra layer of appreciation for his work and his approach to design.
How did you and Jeffry meet?
Believe it or not, Jeffry and I met through Craigslist. He responded to a post I had made, and we connected instantly. Fast forward, we've been together for almost 16 years now, and we celebrated our love by getting married last August. It's a modern twist to a classic love story, proving that sometimes, unexpected platforms can lead to lifelong connections.
Since you work with your clients virtually, have you ever met any of your clients in person?
While the majority of my client interactions are virtual, I've had the pleasure of knowing a few of my clients as friends long before they enlisted my interior design services. Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet one of my virtual clients in person during a local house remodel project, which we affectionately refer to as a 'hybrid' of virtual and traditional interior design work. Beyond these instances, I hold the hope of meeting all the amazing clients I've collaborated with virtually in person someday. It would be a wonderful way to strengthen the connection we've built through our design projects.
If you could look back over the last 10 years, what is one thing you would change, and why?
That's a great question! Over the last decade, I've gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in interior design, including making a few mistakes along the way. Reflecting on this journey, I genuinely have no regrets, as each step has been a valuable learning experience. However, if there's one aspect I'd consider changing, it would be to have embraced vlogging and social media posting with more confidence. I'll admit, I've found the whole process rather intimidating. Becoming more comfortable with these platforms earlier on could have enhanced my ability to share my work and connect with a broader audience.
As we come to the end of this Q&A session, I hope you've enjoyed this journey through my reflections, experiences, and insights from a decade in the interior design industry. From the evolution of my design style to the challenges and triumphs along the way, each question has offered a glimpse into the world of design through my eyes. The opportunity to share my thoughts on trends, technology, and personal milestones has been incredibly rewarding. I'm grateful for the chance to connect with you all on a deeper level, sharing not just design tips, but also pieces of my personal journey. Thank you for your curiosity, your engagement, and your continued support. Here's to more design adventures and shared stories in the future!
